Perception
Forming the basic component in the formation of concepts, perception is the process of becoming aware of something by use of the senses.
In spite of their similarity, sensation and perception must not be confused: While sensations are simple sensory experiences, percepts are complex constructions of simple elements joined through association. Perception therefore doesn't only describe a kind of recognition, but necessarily includes interpretation and understanding — to the extend possible due to specific contextual knowledge — of sensory experiences.
References
- [1]Encyclopedia Britannica, 2004.